How to Craft Your Essay for the Julie Hurst and Steve Peters Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

Organize your thoughts into four key material buckets: background, achievements, the gap, and personality.

• Background: Consider experiences that shaped your educational aspirations. What personal or community influences motivated you to pursue further studies?
• Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments relevant to your education. Use metrics where possible, such as GPA, leadership roles, or community service hours.
• The Gap: Identify what you currently lack in your education. Explain why this scholarship is essential for your academic and career goals.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal anecdotes that reveal your values and character. What unique perspectives do you bring to your education?

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay logically. Start with a compelling introduction that sets the scene. Follow with sections dedicated to each of your four material buckets, ensuring each paragraph has a clear focus. Finally, conclude by summarizing your aspirations and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.

Drafting Voice and Style

When drafting, use an active voice and specific language. Avoid clichés and vague expressions. Instead of saying you are passionate, demonstrate your passion through specific examples. Each section should reflect your personal journey and insights, answering the “So what?” question to show why your experiences matter.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a step back and revise. Look for clarity and coherence. Ensure each paragraph contributes to your overall narrative. Ask yourself: does each section reflect your growth and future goals? Enlist peers or mentors for feedback to gain external perspectives on your essay.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of common mistakes. Avoid starting with generic statements or clichés. Ensure that all facts are accurate and verifiable. Keep your writing focused on your unique experiences and insights rather than generalized statements about education or ambition.